A crucial Championship fixture between Charlton Athletic and Portsmouth was dramatically abandoned on Saturday afternoon following a serious medical emergency involving a home supporter.
Match Halted in the 13th Minute
The lunchtime kick-off at The Valley, which began at 12.30pm, was brought to a sudden stop in the 13th minute with the score still goalless. The incident occurred in the lower tier of the Covered End, where a Charlton fan required urgent medical assistance.
Referee Matthew Donohue initially paused the game as the situation unfolded. After six minutes, and upon becoming fully aware of the severity of the emergency—alerted by shouts from concerned fans—Donohue made the decision to lead both teams off the pitch and into the dressing rooms.
Emergency Response and Decision to Abandon
Paramedics and first responders treated the individual at the scene for a further 12 minutes before carefully transporting the supporter from the stadium on a stretcher. The welfare of the fan remained the absolute priority for all involved.
At approximately 1.30pm, nearly three-quarters of an hour after the initial stoppage, the final decision was communicated. The match would not resume. Stadium announcer Dave Lockwood addressed the crowd, stating, "Everyone here at Charlton sends their very best wishes to the supporter affected."
He continued, "We thank our medical team and first responders. We will inform [you] when the match will be rescheduled and that will be announced in due course. Please make your way out safely, calmly and in orderly fashion."
Club Reactions and Next Steps
Portsmouth Football Club swiftly responded with a message of support on social media platform X, posting: "Our thoughts and best wishes are with the individual involved."
The focus now shifts entirely to the wellbeing of the supporter, with the footballing consequences becoming a secondary concern. Charlton manager Nathan Jones was seen applauding the fans as they departed, acknowledging the sombre and understanding mood within the ground.
A new date for the rearranged fixture will be confirmed by the English Football League in the coming days.
